Interior: Jessika Goranson, Source: Lonny Magazine

Several others around the blogosphere have featured this apartment after Lonny Magazine debuted it on their site. The second home of Jessika Goranson in the Upper East Side is everything I’d want to my home to look like. It’s clean yet homey, eclectic with a strong traditional mood and all around chic. There are so many elements that I love about this space but really, it’s not just the architecture or the furniture that make this home what it is.  A lot has to do with the styling and the accessories. With sweet vignettes on every surface and special moments at each corner, the accessories really make this home special. Several of the accessories are classics found in some of the best designed homes. I thought I explain what are some of the most classic and traditional accessories, and why.

Interior: Jessika Goranson, Source: Lonny Magazine

1.  Obelisk – As seen above on the demilune table, the obelisk has been a classic accessory and element used in interiors. The shape is thought to be representative of the descending rays of the sun, an obelisk is said to resemble a petrified ray of the sun-disk. Obelisks were prominent in the architecture of ancient Egyptians, who placed them in pairs at the entrance of temples. I’ve been meaning to find a pair of obelisks for my home however, I just haven’t found the right set yet.

2.  Foo Dogs – In the entry, a pair of Foo Dogs stand. Also known as the imperial guardian lions, Foo Dogs have traditionally stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government offices, temples and homes of government officials and the wealthy.  They’re believed to have powerful mythic protective benefits. A fun fact, the lions are always created in pairs, with the male resting his paw upon the world and the female restraining a playful cub that is on its back.

3.  Garden Stool – Barrel or drum shaped garden stools have been used in China for at least 1,000 years. Having possibly evolved from stumps and smooth rocks that were used as seats in Buddhist gardens. In Chinese culture, outdoor furniture was essential and by the Song Dynasty from 960 -1279, these types of stools were used both indoors and outdoors as casual seating. The materials for the outdoor stools were usually made out of stone, glazed or porcelain.  With the Chinoiserie decorative movement they have become popular in Western Interiors and often used as extra seating, and side tables.

Interior: Jessika Goranson, Source: Lonny Magazine

4.  Delft China or Delftware – Is blue and white pottery made in and around Delft in the Netherlands. Delftware includes all kinds of pottery such as plates, ornaments and tiles. During the Dutch Golden Age, the Dutch East India Company imported millions of pieces of Chinese porcelain in the early 17th century. The Chinese workmanship and details impressed the Europeans. Later, after the death of the Wanli Emperor in 1620, the supply of Delft to Europe was interrupted and the Dutch began imitating the Chinese pottery in look and style.

Source: Lonny Magazine

5. Animal Prints – Animal prints have long been considered chic and exotic. Throughout history, kings and other wealthy people have used animal print rugs as a sign of status. The most common prints are leopard, zebra, cheetah and tiger. Animal prints now can be neutrals within interiors and add a touch of glamour in any space. The easiest way to add such prints to your home is with throw pillows and blankets.

6. Staffordshire Porcelain Figurines -During the late 18th century, potters created figurines with fine detail and rich colors. The Crown Staffordshire China Co. Ltd. of England is known for their animal, bird and floral figurines. The rare pieces are considered highly collectible and valuable today. The most common animals being the dogs although less expensive are just as fun and attractive.

7. Urns – Urns like the one pictured above are fabulous containers and come in a range of sizes. Used both indoors and out, they are great for holding flowers and potted plants, pencils, umbrellas, etc. The early versions of decorative urns were crafted in terracotta, marble, stone and other materials. Urns were embellished with handles, leaf motifs, and masks portraying gods and goddesses. Number of time they served special purposes too, like storing water and wine, in addition to decorative and ceremonial occasions. They were a symbol of wealth and elegance and could be found in such places are the gardens of Versailles. Now, smaller versions have been created to use in interiors as holders for flowers and plants.

Source: Lonny Magazine

Source: Lonny Magazine

Source: Lonny Magazine

8. Silhouettes – These simple and personal artworks add a bit of character to any home. They can be easily found at flea markets or made by hand of family members (I made mine.) The term “silhouette” came into use in the early 19th century, although cutting portraits in profile from black cards began during the mid-18th century. The word “silhouette” derives from the name of Étienne de Silhouette, a French finance minister who, in 1759, was forced by France’s credit crisis during the Seven Years War to impose severe economic demands upon French people, particularly the wealthy.

Silhouette became well known for anything done or made cheaply and so with these outline portraits being the cheapest way to record a person’s appearance, the name stuck.

Source: Lonny Magazine

9. Mirrored Vanity Trays – One of the best ways to keep your vanity uncluttered is to lay your jewelry, perfumes and small collectibles on mirrored trays. The best ones are the antiqued and silver vintage versions. Silver trays have long been around for tools in carrying food and serving pieces to the wealthy, originally called “salver.” Trays also became popular at the turn of the century for ladies to place accessories on their dressing tables.

Source: Lonny Magazine

Source: Lonny

10. French Ribbon Details – The Rococo era in France was a time filled with grace and joyful pleasures. A reaction against the grandeur, symmetry and strict regulations of the Baroque period. Rococo art and architecture was ornate, filled with curves, gold and pastel colors. The common design element of the carved ribbons and bows was used on many types of furniture and mirrors. As seen above, the whimsy and soft curves give light to the straight and hard lines of the architecture.

All of these accessories can be found new or as antiques and vintage pieces. I think the best ones are of the latter categories. There’s nothing like searching for the perfect piece, finding it and knowing it’s unique.

Can you think of any of accessories that are a must have for the home? Thanks for reading. My Best, Lauren

History sources:

Garden Stools – Apartment Therapy

Wikipedia